If you are seriously injured or fall ill, you might seek a second opinion – but what if you are hurt at work? When you are dealing with Ohio Workers’ Compensation Claims, how is this handled?

With Ohio Workers’ Compensation Claims, the short answer is this: Yes, you can seek a second opinion for your illness or injury sustained at work.

But like most issues in Ohio Workers’ Compensation Claims, it isn’t always a black and white process.

It can be challenging to know when or if to seek a second opinion for a work injury or illness and many people with minor injuries do not do so – for a plethora of reasons. But if you are seriously injured or ill, you may want a second opinion for peace of mind – especially if you don’t understand or are uncomfortable with the first opinion.

All of this is totally normal and to be expected but it can be hard to navigate, especially if this is your first experience with Ohio Workers’ Compensation Claims.

If you aren’t comfortable with the treatment options given by your doctor or managed care organization (MCO) here are some things to consider.

You can get a second opinion

You can always get a second opinion if you aren’t comfortable with or if you have questions about your initial diagnosis or treatment plan. However, you might have to pay out of your own pocket if the processes of Workers’ Compensation are not followed. Generally, you can choose your own doctor but that doctor might not be your regular doctor – meaning you haven’t worked with them and you might not be as comfortable asking questions or stating concerns.

Sometimes, you can get a second opinion from another doctor who works with the workers’ compensation program – and that may be covered.

The option to appeal

If the doctor or MCO makes decisions about your care that you, your employer or your family doctor doesn’t agree with, you can challenge or appeal those decisions. You can file a claim with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation and ask for your case to be reviewed. You can also initiate an appeal.

In short, there are options for you, and if you are having issues navigating the system, hiring a lawyer with experience is never a bad idea – so you get the treatment you need to recover from your work-related illness or injury.

Connor Kimmet and Hafenstein LLP

If you have questions about your legal rights, our qualified attorneys are here to help. Contact us today.